The word “kin” comes from a common Teutonic word. Kin has to do with family—those who are related and share a common bloodline, a common ancestor. People used to refer to their relatives as kin folks.

It is interesting that the word “kin” is akin to ““kind.” They share a common derivation. We expect our kin folks to be kind to us. The Bible teaches that “love is kind” (1 Cor 13:4). Paul exhorted, “And be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.” (Eph. 4:32)

In the Lord’s church we are kin to one another. We are family. Kinfolks. We are related by blood. The blood of Jesus. Our association is not based on rules and regulations, but relationship. Kinship. This bond naturally issues itself in kindness.

As kin who are kind, we’re not interested in one-upmanship, petty, political gamesmanship, or prideful posturing. We’re kin. We treat each as such. With kindness. Sympathy. Compassion. Gentleness. Benevolence. Thoughtfulness.